Aquascot, the employee-owned Scottish seafood processor behind Waitrose’s premium Scottish salmon and trout range, has been named Waitrose Own Brand Supplier of the Year 2026.
The accolade recognises the company’s long-standing commitment to quality, innovation and partnership, marking the first time the Highland-based business has received the honour in more than 30 years of supplying the retailer.
Presented as part of Waitrose’s annual supplier awards programme, the title is among the most prestigious distinctions in the UK grocery sector. Aquascot was selected from a highly competitive field spanning multiple product categories and regions.
Headquartered in Alness, Ross-shire, Aquascot has worked with Waitrose since 2003 and now supplies the retailer’s full range of own-brand Scottish salmon products, alongside premium Scottish trout. The company has built a strong reputation for consistently delivering high-quality, responsibly sourced seafood, underpinned by close collaboration across its supply chain.
The award represents a significant achievement not only for Aquascot but also for the Highlands and Scotland’s wider seafood industry, highlighting the vital role regional producers play in supplying leading UK retailers.
Maddy Wilson, Partner & Director of Own Brand at Waitrose, said: “Aquascot earns this award for exceptional partnership, dedication and collaboration, bringing consistently high-quality products that truly do the Waitrose own brand proud.”
Aquascot is one of Scotland’s largest employee-owned businesses, with a culture centred on shared ownership, accountability and long-term thinking. The company credits this approach with fostering the expertise, commitment and attention to detail that underpin its success.
The recognition follows a strong period of growth and investment for the business, as it continues to develop its workforce, enhance its facilities and strengthen customer partnerships.
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Andy Wilson, Partner & Commercial Director at Aquascot, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be named Waitrose Own Brand Supplier of the Year. With our long-standing relationship, this award reflects our shared commitment to quality and our passion for showcasing both the strength of our employee-owned business and the very best of the Highlands on a national stage.”
The award further reinforces Aquascot’s position as a leading seafood processor and underlines the continued strength of Scotland’s food and drink sector, which is gaining increasing recognition for its quality, provenance and responsible production both in the UK and internationally.
